Feyenoord and Inter Milan Clash in Champions League Round of 16

ROTTERDAM, Netherlands — Feyenoord and Inter Milan faced off on March 5, 2025, in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 matchup at the iconic De Kuip Stadium. Both teams entered the match eager to gain an advantage for the return leg, with Feyenoord looking to exploit their home advantage and Inter aiming to capitalize on their strong showing in group stages.

Feyenoord, led by new head coach Robin van Persie, made it to this stage after defeating AC Milan 2-1 on aggregate in the previous round. However, they struggled in the Eredivisie, recently drawing without scoring against NEC Nijmegen. Van Persie has been tasked with rejuvenating the team amidst these challenges.

On the contrary, Inter, managed by Simone Inzaghi, has been on a steady course in the Champions League, registering six wins, one draw, and one loss in the group stage. Notably, they displayed remarkable defensive strength, conceding only one goal in those eight matches, although their current crisis in defense looms large due to injuries.

Key players missing for Inter include Federico Dimarco, Nicola Zalewski, Carlos Augusto, and Matteo Darmian. Their absence has forced Inzaghi to adapt, potentially shifting to a four-man defense, a tactical pivot from their usual style.

The match opened succinctly, with both teams trying to assert dominance early on. In the first few minutes, Lautaro Martínez aimed for a breakthrough for Inter but was thwarted by Feyenoord’s resilient defense.

Feyenoord’s goalkeeper, Josep Martínez, proved essential, making crucial saves early in the match, keeping the score level as Feyenoord pressured the Inter defense. His performance was pivotal, registering several saves and maintaining composure under sustained attacks from the visitors.

The atmosphere at De Kuip was electric, filled with anticipation and excitement from fans eager to support their team in this critical encounter. As the game continued, Feyenoord’s Osman and Carranza posed significant threats, launching counterattacks that tested Inter’s defense.

With the first half drawing to a close, both teams struggled to break the deadlock, leading to a tactically intense game. Despite missing key defenders, Inter aimed to close down spaces and counter-attack effectively. “This match is crucial for us,” said Inzaghi post-match, emphasizing the need for resilience despite the injuries.

As the game unfolded, Van Persie expressed confidence in Feyenoord’s return leg away at Milan, stating, “We have a strong group capable of surprising anyone, especially at home.” His leadership becomes ever more critical as Feyenoord strives to build momentum in European competition.

Fans were abuzz with predictions and discussions, some leaning towards an Inter victory based on their Champions League form, others hoping for Feyenoord’s resurgence under Van Persie. The final outcome of this first leg will set the stage for a compelling return leg, as both teams vie for a spot in the quarter-finals.